Knowledge, perception, and readiness of health professionals towards the use of electronic health record during COVID-19 pandemic in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Research has shown that paper-based record-keeping techniques contribute greatly to the discontinuity of patient care among healthcare providers, especially with COVID-19. The lack of readiness to adopt the use of electronic health record (EHR) systems has resulted in the continuous use of a rather flawed paper system. Objectives: This study accesses knowledge, perception, and readiness to adopt EHR in healthcare facilities in Lagos State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This descriptive quantitative study carried out among healthcare workers across different disciplines working in Lagos State used an interviewer-administered online questionnaire to generate data. Data methods utilized Epi Info statistical software as well as the χ2 test, with statistical significance set at P<0.05. Results: Eighty five point four percent (85.4%) of the respondents were below 35 years of age, whereas most of the respondents (93.08%) had a personal computer and little below half of them (42.31%) had a previous experience with the EHR system. Ninety three point nine percent (93.9%) of the respondents perceived that EHR was better than the paper system, mostly citing the fact that it would speed up their work and 90.77% wanted it to be adopted, even though 88.46% felt that the lack of computer systems was a barrier. Most of the respondents had a good experience (81.54%) and good perception (92.31%) and were willing to use EHR systems (95.38%). Conclusion: With the advent of COVID-19, awareness, perception, and readiness of healthcare providers to adopt EHR are increasing and this possesses an opportunity to transform healthcare service delivery.